Photos by Takahiro Takiguchi ()
Welcome to virtual vacation video series where we can explore destinations from the comfort of our homes.
Join us as we take a short virtual journey to Minami Boso in southern Chiba Peninsula.
The great thing about this destination is that it is easily accessible from Tokyo and most of the military bases in the Kanto Plain with a short 30-minute ferry boat ride from Yokosuka City or through the Tokyo Bay Aqua-line Expressway.
Minami Boso is home to scenic coastlines, picturesque landscapes, farms, parks, old castle towns and Japan’s largest stone-carved Buddha. You can check out various seasonal flowers with a backdrop of the beautiful blue ocean while driving along a wide and less-crowded road, which makes the area a short, great getaway.
Some of the must-see spots in the area include:
• Nihonji Temple and Mother Farm - Nihonji Temple on Mount Nokogiriyama is one of the oldest temples in the Kanto Plain and is home to the largest “Daibutsu” big Buddha carved into a mountainside. Above the temple, visitors can enjoy the view at Jigokunozoki, an observation platform. Mother Farm spreads across 600-plus acres of land and is a popular sightseeing stop because it is home to a plethora of farm animals, fun activities and seasonal flower gardens.
• Tateyama City - Sitting high on a hill above the Tateyama City, Tateyama Castle offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape including the city and the Tokyo Gulf. Tsurugaya Hachimangu is another must-see spot as it is the most majestic Shinto shrine in the region with huge stone torii gate and a wide, long approach. Check out the old wooden shrine elaborately decorated with tiny dragon and tiger sculptures. Daifukuji Temple, also known as cliff temple, gives the impression that it is floating in mid-air. Drop by Aloha Garden on the Flower Line, for a variety of tropical flora and fauna, restaurants, shops and a playground perfect for kids.
• Kururi Town - Kururi Town, an old castle town, is famous for its spring water. With pure, quality water, the town accommodates 20 wells and four sake breweries, which have been producing high-end alcohol for over 100 years. You can sample the different water at the wells around the town. Besides the water spots, the streets of this town are a trip back to old Japan.
While you're there, don't forget to sample local fish dishes. Among them, aji furai or fried horse mackerel is a must since it is locally sourced, fresh and tasty.
I hope you enjoyed a look at Minami Boso through my travel photos and that it's inspired your next trip. Stay safe and get ready to travel with us in our next video. Thanks for watching!
